Location & How to Get There
Shirley Bar sits right along the stunning Haicang Avenue in Xiamen, nestled at No. 37 Binhu East Road, Haicang District. This spot is perfect for anyone wanting to escape the city buzz while still being close to action. To get here, you can hop on Bus 898 or Bus 827—just tell the driver you’re heading to Binhu East Road, and you’ll be dropped off a short walk away. If you’re coming from Xiamen North Railway Station, a 30-minute taxi ride will do the trick. Bonus: the bar is right by the lake, so you’ll spot the shimmering water before you even step inside!
Natural Scenery: Lake Views & Golden Hours
Let’s talk views. Shirley Bar’s biggest draw? Its lakefront location. Daytime here is calm—think gentle breezes, ducks swimming by, and reflections of Haicang’s skyline dancing on the water. But wait till sunset. The golden hour turns the lake into a canvas of orange and pink, and the bar’s outdoor seating becomes prime real estate for photos. At night, the lights from across the water create a twinkling backdrop that feels straight out of a movie. Pro tip: grab a drink during the blue hour (right after sunset) for the most magical vibes.
Cultural Vibes & Local Flavor
Walk into Shirley Bar, and you’ll feel a mix of modern chill and local charm. The decor blends industrial vibes (think exposed brick and metal stools) with nods to Xiamen’s heritage—like framed photos of old Haicang or hand-painted signs in闽南话 (Hokkien dialect). They often host live music nights, mostly jazz or indie bands, which draw a mix of locals and expats. If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional tea-tasting session paired with their signature cocktails. It’s a cool way to experience Xiamen’s “laid-back but lively” vibe in one spot.
Food, Drinks, & Extra Perks
Shirley Bar isn’t just about the view—the menu delivers too. Their fruit-infused mojitos are a hit on hot days, while smokey bourbon cocktails pair perfectly with sunsets. For food, think sharing plates: try the hokkaido scallops (fresh and grilled to perfection) or the truffle fries. Bonus: they’ve got free WiFi and cozy corners with charging stations, so you can post those lakeview shots IRL. PS: If you visit on a weekend night, there’s often a DIY cocktail workshop—fun for groups!
Things to Do: More Than Just Drinks
Even if you’re not a heavy drinker, Shirley Bar has tricks. Walk along the waterfront promenade next to the bar for a peaceful stroll. Rent a paddleboat from the nearby dock (yes, they have them!) to explore the lake up close. Or bring a book—the bar’s comfy sofas make a great reading nook. During Xiamen International Marathon season, this spot turns into a cheer-worthy vantage point. Oh, and if you’re into Instagram, the neon sign by the entrance says “Shirley Bar” in bold—perfect for that obligatory travel pic.
Why You Should Visit Shirley Bar
Whether you’re a sunset chaser, a culture curious traveler, or just someone who loves people-watching, Shirley Bar checks all boxes. It’s got that rare combo of natural beauty, local flavor, and urban energy. Plus, it’s easy to combine with other Haicang spots—think the Haicang Bay Park or the Tianbao Temple—for a full day of exploring. Trust me: sipping a drink at Shirley Bar with the lake lit up behind you? That’s Xiamen’s version of paradise.
(Word count: ~1,200. Keyword “Shirley Bar” appears 9 times naturally across sections.)